An interesting look at what astrology has to say about the future of the US and Covid-19. A video from Astrolada on YouTube. Speaker: Dr. Lee Lehman.
MAGICK OF REIKI
by Christopher Penczak
This is not a traditional book on Reiki. It’s an intriguing and empowering book unifying the concepts of Reiki and magick from a practitioner’s point of view. The book compares and contrasts the two disciplines and encourages areas of crossover. Although many shy away from the word magick because it evokes negative associations, most of us are comfortable with the use of language involving the power of intention. The conscious use of intention can manifest inwardly or outwardly, both affecting our reality. This is magick. Most of us recognize magickal practices including spells, rain dances, healing songs, and protection blessings. But magical practices also include affirmations, prayer, creative visualization, positive thinking, and the biggest buzz word of all— co-creating. Shockingly simple and… unifying.
Although the author points out that the roots of Western magick and Eastern Reiki may seem like a wide gulf to bridge, they are really two disciplines providing paths up the same mountain. Both use symbols, initiation (called attunement in Reiki), spiritual lineage, energy work, and the mystical path of personal experience. Magick does differ from Reiki in how it creates change. Magick releases a well-considered intention into the world whereas Reiki practice does not focus on outcome. Reiki energy is understood to be intelligent and works for the higher good. The energy flows where it is needed.
The book includes a brief history of what we know about the history of Reiki. Many of us realize there is a lot of misinformation floating around. Stories and legends about the founders proliferate. A really good history of Reiki can be found in Penelope Quest’s, Reiki for Life. The three levels of Reiki are outlined in subsequent chapters of Penczak’s book. Most fascinating was the description of the entire ritual for attunement found in Chapter 5. The author is a firm believer that once you have your first attunement, the door to Reiki is open. Use of symbols and even doing attunements is possible.
The remaining chapters of the book explore healing with symbols, working with Reiki spirit guides, using crystals, and plant magick. There is also a chapter on some of the new lineages and practices emerging post-Usui. Overall, a creative, empowering and helpful book.
REIKI DISTANCE HEALING TREATMENTS: I’d like to offer my services to readers of the blog. Anyone interested in receiving Reiki distance treatment can contact me at: ellisnelson@gmx.com. I will provide additional information via email. To honor the exchange practice of Reiki, you will be asked to make a $25 donation to your favorite charity.
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Black Order- James Rollins
This is a novel of great action and thought-provoking questions. The story spans continents, history, and cultures.
The story starts in Denmark when Charles Darwin’s Bible goes up for sale and someone tries to steal it. While an interesting historical artifact, no one really believes it can possibly be worth the kind of effort someone is using to obtain it. So why the interest? Gray Pierce, Commander of SIGMA Force, is soon on a trail leading to past horrendous Nazi experiments.
Meanwhile, in a Buddhist monastery in Nepal something awful has happened. SIGMA Force director, Painter Crowe has gone off the radar. Painter and an American doctor have come upon a scene of cannibalism and barbarity perpetrated by the monks. Now they are on the run from a group of killers with no idea what they have stumbled into.
At breakneck speed, Gray Pierce must solve these seemingly independent mysteries to save his colleagues and stop a plot that may alter mankind’s destiny.
This is a book reminiscent of Michael Crichton’s work (I miss him!!), combining facts and fiction in a highly compelling read. James Rollins is a veterinarian and he laces the book with plenty of science- evolution, intelligent design, quantum physics, and genetic manipulation.
From the book:
“…this new field of quantum evolution offer the strongest support for intelligent design,” Anna said, “but it also answers the fundamental question of who the designer is.”
“You’re kidding. Who? God?”
“Nein.” Anna stared her in the eye. “Us.”
Sounds a lot like being a co-creator. Quantum evolution exists as a theory and the author credits a book with that title by Johnjoe McFadden for many of the ideas explored in Black Order. The book asks us to consider not only how we got here but where are we headed as a species.
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YESTERDAY’S SKY
by Steven Forrest
This is a book that exposes the reader to a branch of evolutionary astrology where the birthchart can be used as a tool to glimpse an archetypal story of one’s past-life themes. According to the author, evolutionary astrology examines the way consciousness evolves through lifetimes subject to the free will of the individual. In this context, evolutionary astrology can be thought of as a form of psychological astrology merged with metaphysics.
While the techniques to figure out who you were and what your circumstances were like are outlined, the emphasis of the book is on recognizing patterns and situations from the past which are recurring. These are the ones that need the soul’s attention and work for healing and growth. This is an astrology of symbolism that may not be an actual past-life but rather a similar version of a prior life. The value of doing an evolutionary astrology analysis is to identify unresolved issues from prior lives that exist in the present life, so that they can be resolved, and the soul can evolve.
So this then, is reincarnation astrology. Who knew?
In this fairly technical book, you’re unlikely to make it very far with the techniques without a good grasp of astrology and the knowledge of how to read a birthchart. This is a book for astrologers. It is, however, possible to have your chart read by an evolutionary astrologer if you’re so inclined. I’ve worked with the material using my chart and I have to say, the results are pretty startling- mostly in the way it confirms what I sense is right about my (archetypal) past and the way it diagnoses current life difficulties. I’ve also done further analyses on other birthcharts and I have to say, there does seem to be an uncanny correctness about the data it produces.
The key into the past is an exhaustive examination of the south node of the moon in the natal chart. To construct a past-life story, the south node’s sign, house, and any planetary conjunctions must be assessed. Further analysis of the ruler of the south node along with hard and soft aspects give more insight into the soul’s past-life situations and challenges. It’s a complicated and fascinating methodology that appeals to the storyteller in some of us. But- it is not necessarily easy or straightforward in practice because there are often contradictory bits of information. The technique does require time and practice to perfect. To that end, there are five case studies in the book to try your hand with. Unfortunately, these are mostly famous people and the astrological “hits” feel like cherry picking. Perhaps generic charts stepping through the technique might have proven more effective (at least, for me).
In the end, I spent hours with the book working with my own chart. Although I never quite came up with a cohesive archetypal tale, I did grasp certain aspects about the past which ring loud and clear in my existence today. Compelling so! The book also sounds the call for journeying toward the soul’s evolution through the work of the north node. If you are familiar with your birthchart, give this book a try. If you’re interested in past-lives and your soul’s work but can’t fathom taking this on, consulting an evolutionary astrologer or doing a past life regression might be worth looking into. Remember though, evolutionary astrology does NOT produce an actual past life but rather is symbolic of the kind of existence you were likely to have had.
Discover Ellis’ books by following the link below.
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LYDIA INTERVIEWS ELLIS-
Hey, gang! I’m Lydia. In Ellis’ book, Timeless Tulips, Dark Diamonds- A Ghost Story, I was the fourteen-year-old moving to Upstate New York dealing with the ghost of a Dutch girl from the 17th century. At the time, I thought ghosts weren’t real, but first-hand experience has a way of shattering your reality. Today I have the chance to grill the writer— I mean ask a few behind the scenes questions. Some I have an inkling about, others I’m just as clueless as the reader is.
I’m like totally over this, but how was it that Annika became your favorite?
Yeah, about that. You were always intended to be the main character but by the end of the story, it was obvious Annika had taken over. Partly, it was the history of the period that was so captivating and interesting. 17th century Holland and what Annika’s family goes through during the boom and bust of the tulip market grips us. That’s not to say what you experience is to be trivialized. Lydia- your world changes alongside Annika’s. You both make moves and go through things neither of you expect.
That’s for sure! And now that I know Annika’s whole story, I get why she acted the way she did. It was just so scary and aggravating at the time. But, like I said- I’m over Annika being more of the focus of the book.
Speaking of our connection, how am I like you? What makes us different?
You deal with the same mother/daughter issues but with a maturity I didn’t have. We both are “book” people and have a love for animals. Both of us struggle to find our place in the world. Don’t we all?
What was the toughest scene in the book to write?
You know this one.
Yeah, but I gotta ask.
Tell them.
The incident when Mom had to call the ambulance.
Why?
Because it really happened that way.
Right. That scene was written from experience. It was just before Christmas and I was starring at the Christmas tree. The lights started to behave strangely. I witnessed a bizarre and beautiful phenomenon, I later learned was called “aura”. Events intensified where I lost my ability to speak and access language. My brain shut down. Some people call this a stroke in slow motion. Very scary. In fact, it was and is the scariest thing to ever happen to me. And these incidents continued for twelve years. Imagine, experiencing unpredictable, stroke-like symptoms for a dozen years… That’s why this scene was so hard to write and re-read.
Would you say this is your most personal book?
Absolutely. We’ve already talked about the migraine connection but there are other elements as well. In the dedication, I mention being a toddler and talking about a ghost I would see at night. This book also explores mother/daughter issues I myself experienced. Lydia is far more perceptive and processes these topics with insight I didn’t possess at her age. In many ways, the book was cathartic in allowing me to explore themes of illness, emerging spirituality, healing, and personal power.
Can I have a sequel?
No way! Sorry, my dear, your story has been told.
Is Annika getting a sequel?
This is starting to sound like whining. I’ve already given you credit for being mature. Now, what impression are readers going to be left with?
Oops. I just want you to know that I’m available should another plotline jump into that writer head of yours.
Got it.
Anyway, thanks for hanging out today! Timeless Tulips, Dark Diamonds is out in print and e-book. Follow the links below.
Print: https://amzn.to/2WnlqZX
E- book: https://amzn.to/2l7LhHP
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E-book Available Today!
AMAZON LINK: https://amzn.to/2l7LhHP
Two worlds collide in this haunting tale. When fourteen-year-old Lydia travels to Amsterdam with her parents, the last thing she expects is the weird incidents that plague her stay. Curtains flutter mysteriously, and unexplained shadows move through the kitchen unnerving her. But Lydia is more concerned with the potential move to Upstate New York. She dismisses the odd occurrences blaming them on jet lag and the various symptoms of her migraine disease. When Lydia’s father lands a new job and the family moves to an area first settled by the Dutch, the bizarre happenings continue. Suffering from migraines has never been easy, but now Lydia has to contend with what she may have inadvertently brought home with her.
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING:
“YA Author Ellis Nelson knows how to thread a carefully spun tale with some little known, wildly interesting, historical facts and wonderful family dynamics. She paints memorable portraits of the different countries and eras – including the scents, fragrances, smells and stenches that so clearly define those ancient times in Holland . . . right into the New World! As an avid reader, I enjoyed the love for details, the historic research, and the way the author stuck – with unwavering rhythm – to her theme. . . ”
“… author, Ellis Nelson, accomplishes so much more. She ties the old world (Amsterdam) and the new world (New Amsterdam/New York) into one intriguing thread. Then she weaves that thread into a present day story of a young visionary, Lydia, who stumbles upon the unfinished business of her invisible counterpart, Annika, from the 17th century. The stories of both girls are complete, one illuminating the other. Through these points-of-view we experience the everyday angst of adolescence in both natural and supernatural ways. Mystical insights, historical realities, and future possibilities gild this lily of a story (or I should say, this prizewinning tulip) into a work of art.”
“Timeless Tulips is the third novel I have immersed myself in by gifted author, Ellis Nelson. As with her other books, this story is exciting, suspenseful, and definitely unique. The plot twists in unexpected ways and is filled with shadowy circumstances. A wonderful read!!”
“Speculating on tulips was a twist. Nelson brings the setting, characters, and events to life with a deft hand.”
“… loved the Amsterdam, Dutch heritage aspect, since I’m of Dutch ancestry. Wonderful ghost story!”
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SIDEWALK ORACLES
Playing with Signs, Symbols, & Synchronicity in Everyday Life by Robert Moss
This is a book of practical kairomancy— the author’s word for the practice of navigating by synchronicity. I had a little giggle reflecting on the fact that I grew up in a place called “Cairo” and the topic of Jung’s meaningful coincidences has fascinated me for years. Greek in origin, Kairos is all about openings and this book is all about getting the reader to seize these precious opportunities to expand life experience. Kairos moments can seem weird and wacky, but they hint at a connectedness or a “hidden-hand” playfully nudging—calling us to engage. How do we begin this process?
The book outlines twelve basic principles underlying the mindset required to maximize your experience while practicing kairomancy. The most important elements of the practice are summed up in the OATH:
O= Open to new experience
A= Available to set aside plans and the confines of boxes.
T= Thankful for everything that happens on the journey
H= Honor special moments by taking action
YOU as Kairomancer: Let’s Play!
The book contains descriptions of seventeen games. Below are three that caught my eye.
SIDEWALK TAROT: This game can be played in several ways. Probably the easiest version, and the one I’ve tried, requires you to pose a question. The author suggests the form of the question be “I would like guidance on …” Any issue large or small is fine. Ask your question, set your time period, and believe you will be answered. (As an example, I’ve asked my question, chosen my time period to be my walk around the block with my dog, and usually I’ll impose the first three unusual things I notice in the neighborhood to be my “answers.”) I’ve done this several times and it can be a very profound practice requiring you sit with the answers and ponder deep connections. Give it a try.
LISTEN FOR YOUR DAILY KLEDON: A kledon refers to the first sound heard after a silent period. This game requires being alert to bits of conversation, singing, animal or bird calls. How do these tidbits answer questions you’ve been thinking about? What themes are they alerting you to? What’s the first thing you heard when you woke today?
DIVINATION BY THE BOOK: (also called “bibliomancy”) Choose a book (one that has special meaning for you, maybe a spiritual book, a journal, etc.) or you can just reach for whatever is handy on the shelf. Ask your question (or remain open for whatever the book brings). Randomly, open the book. Close your eyes and let your fingers wander over the page. When you’re ready, open your eyes, and read the passage. How does this relate to your question? To your life?
If you’re ready to play, the universe is ready to meet you half- way. This is a book filled with weird, wonderful tales of unexpected coincidence. There are countless ways to dance with the trickster energy of synchronicity. This is a great starting point. Let me know how you get on.
Find my books by clicking the link below.
WHAT I’M WORKING ON
If you follow my blogs, Facebook, or Twitter feeds, I’m sure it looks like I’m not doing a whole lot. But since being back in country (since late Oct.) things have been very busy. Personal challenges continue— my mother died in April and the house hunt continues.
Timeless Tulips, Dark Diamonds, my new book was released this spring. Since the publisher does not have ebook rights, I’ll be releasing an ebook this fall. It will be an expanded version of the print book with additional material. My goal is to release this in time for Halloween since it’s a ghost story. Stay tuned for more on that.
Additionally, I’m working on a new novel that’s about three quarters complete. No title yet. This has been a fun book to work on. It’s required some research into the history of Colorado’s start and the history of tuberculosis (the White Plague). The book is a visionary tale about girl who grows up in a 19th century, Colorado town known for its dry climate and healing waters. With a father in the mortuary business, Tallulah has always been around TB and death. Tally’s mother died when she was born, and she longs to know more about the woman who should have raised her. Two peculiar town residents, who Tally is warned to give wide berth, sisters Dottie and Lottie (rumor has it) can speak to the dead. Can Tally persuade them to help her? I’m hoping to finish this by the end of the year. Add your title ideas in the comments section. PLEASE!!
Another manuscript I’ve been sitting on for a while, I think I’m going to self-publish soon. The Greening of the Laurel is a visionary, YA book in thriller mode. Ryan’s junior year is turned upside down by a series of bizarre visions and freaky encounters with fire. Eventually, Ryan ends up in the ER. He finally comes face to face with the man who claims to have all the answers. But how can quantum physics and timeless spiritual mysteries be colliding with Ryan at the center of it all? Can he really believe he had a past as a medieval heretic where he hid what has become known as the lost Cathar treasure, a manuscript containing the hidden truth underlying the universe? Can he trust a secret society that claims to need his help if science is to move forward?
(Montsegur- Cathar stronghold until the final battle of 1244)
Not at first, but as events threaten his family, Ryan returns to southern France to find the document he once allegedly hid. In 1244, he watched two hundred of his countrymen burn as he and two others slipped away in the night carrying a manuscript the world desperately needs. Surrounding Ryan are members of the Green Laurel, back to ensure his safety. Also, back are the dark forces of the Church who want nothing more than to exterminate the remnants of the Cathars and the truth the future requires. Without the manuscript, science cannot advance. A single unified theory will never be found and, all along, Ryan’s very existence remains in peril.
And although I’ve never had any luck with picture books, I’m currently circulating a manuscript with agents starring Mona Lisa. A cute story, but no bites yet!
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Prophecy by SJ Parris
This is book two of a series with Giordano Bruno (defrocked-friar, philosopher, mathematician, poet, cosmological theorist, and Hermetic occultist) starring as master sleuth.
Queen Elizabeth sits on the throne while rumors of her demise circulate. It is the time of the Great Conjunction when Jupiter and Saturn align, signaling the cataclysmic end of the age. Fear and uncertainty grip the nation. France and Spain are eager to exploit any opportunity. Giordano Bruno is on the run from the Inquisition and under the King of France’s protection in England. He is also a mole for Elizabeth’s spymaster, Walsingham.
When several murders happen within the palace walls, Bruno must rely on his wits and his friends to survive. Luckily, he has John Dee (personal astrologer to the Queen) and the extensive spy net.
A very good historical thriller. Would have liked more astrology, occult material, etc. This is essentially an Elizabethan period, who-dun-it. So, a bit disappointing for me who wanted more depth on Bruno and his inner mind.
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Blog Review of Timeless Tulips, Dark Diamonds-
Check out what author and reader, Bianca Gubalke, has to say about my recent release.
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